The Best Hammocks for Backyards, Camping, and Beyond

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It’s hard to beat a sunny Sunday afternoon lounging in the backyard. If you ask us, and the best way to relax is in a hammock. There’s something so comforting about being surrounded by nature while tucked inside a cozy cocoon, back and forth as you read a favorite book, scroll, or nap.

Hammocks come in a variety of materials and sizes and are often designed with a specific purpose or location in mind. For instance, the best camping hammock differs from the best backyard hammock. To help you optimize your relaxation outdoors, we found the best hammocks for a range of activities.

The Best Hammocks

• Best for Backyards: ENO SuperNest SL Hammock

• Best Chair Hammock: Yellowleaf Chair Hammock

• Best Rope: Castaway Living Traditional Rope Hammock

• Best Quilted: Sunnydaze Outdoor Quilted Fabric Hammock

• Best for Camping: Warbonnet Ridgerunner

What to Consider

Material

Hammocks are typically made from materials like cotton, nylon, or polyester, each with benefits and drawbacks. Cotton hammocks are soft and breathable—perhaps a better backyard choice, like the Eagle Nest Outfitters SuperNest SL we recommend below—and they usually come in more sizes. But they also require more maintenance because they’re less weather-resistant.

Nylon and polyester hammocks are lightweight, quick-drying, and durable—which makes them ideal for camping. Not only do they have features most campers desire (e.g., bug nets) but the material is often treated to handle moisture, mud, and scratches. Our favorite camping hammocks are the Warbonnet Ridgerunner and the Dutchware Chameleon.

The way the materials are braided, linked, or sewn also impacts overall use and comfort. Cotton braided or rope hammocks are more comfortable than polyester but require more maintenance to prevent mold and mildew. Polyester rope is more durable, plus it offers decent comfort and less maintenance. But if you’re looking for versatility, perhaps the best all-around option is a nylon-polyester blend. They’re often equally comfortable and durable, plus they’re supportive and soft against the skin.

Use

Portable

Portable hammocks are lightweight, compact, and easy to transport. They are often made of lightweight materials like nylon or parachute fabric and come with carrying bags. They’re ideal for camping, hiking, beach trips, festivals, or any outdoor adventure where you want a chance to relax.

These usually come with straps, ropes, or carabiners that attach with a loop to trees, poles, or other structures. (Look for attachments straps made from nylon, polyester, or Dyneema, and carabiners, for the most versatility.) You can quickly set up and take them down without any permanent fixtures and ideally with no damage to anchor points. Portable stands are also an option and may be necessary in areas without many trees.

Basic portable hammocks range from $20 to $50. Higher-end portable hammocks with additional features such as bug nets, rainflies, or extra-large sizes can cost anywhere from $50 to $200 or more.

Permanent

Permanent backyard hammocks are intended for long-term installation in a fixed location. They are made of durable materials like nylon or cotton blended with polyester. But take note that they’re heavy once installed.

You can hang your permanent hammock between trees, or attach it to solid beams or a hammock stand. They involve more secure anchoring methods to ensure safety and stability and come in various designs and material constructions.

Traditional rope hammocks are typically the most affordable permanent options, ranging from $50 to $150, depending on size and construction quality. More durable hammocks made of materials like canvas or solution-dyed acrylic may cost between $100 and $300.

Size and Weight Capacity

If you’ll share the hammock with a partner or pet, opt for a double-sized hammock with a higher weight capacity. Look at the maximum weight capacity, no matter the size, to ensure the hammock can support your weight and any additional weight from gear or accessories. Single-sized hammocks work well for solo use or backpacking trips unless you like the extra space, but too much excess fabric can get annoying. For common hammock sizes, scroll down to our hammock FAQ section at the end of the story.

Mounting

Some hammocks have built-in straps or ropes, while others require separate suspension hardware. Adjustable straps or suspension systems offer easy setup and flexibility to find the perfect hanging height and tension.

When mounting a hammock on trees, seek out “tree-friendly” designs. The materials should be durable enough to hold the expected load and ideally have a width of at least two inches. The wider the strap, the better it distributes weight, preventing damage to the tree bark. You can also put a towel or fabric between the straps and the tree for additional protection.

Many backyard-specific hammocks are best used with a hammock stand, often sold separately. Most hammock stands are made from steel, aluminum, or wood. They can be stationary or portable, but portable stands do lose some stability.

Metal hammock stands tend to be the strongest and most durable. They’re typically made from powder-coated or galvanized steel or aluminum materials to prevent rust. Steel stands are heavier, so they’re better for stationary hammocks, while lighter aluminum stands may be better for portable hammocks.

Wooden stands are less common but offer an aesthetically pleasing feature to a backyard or patio hammock. These are made from teak, cedar, or cypress woods, which are highly durable and resistant to decay. While they look nice, wooden stands require more maintenance, like staining and sealing the wood to withstand outdoor elements, and they’re extremely heavy.

How We Selected

When I’m not hiking, biking, or paddling, you can find me lounging in my backyard hammock, hanging between two trees on a secluded beach along the river to let my dogs run, or packing a hammock up to an alpine lake to catch up on my reading list. It’s safe to say that I spend about half of my summer lying around in hammocks. As such, I’ve had a chance to try a variety of hammock options I recommend here. For the options I couldn’t get my hands on, I relied on my background knowledge of materials, comfort, and construction to narrow down the options.

I relied heavily on my experience with hammocks while compiling new and updated information from manufacturers and current industry trends. Other considerations, such as verified user testimonials, interviews with brands, and additional research, all played a role in which hammocks made the cut. I also inspected the materials and construction of each hammock below to ensure these recommendations are durable, comfortable, and affordable.

SuperNest SL Hammock

The Eagles Nest Outfitters SuperNest SL hammock is a simple, well-built hammock design suitable for poolside lounging, backyard BBQs, and quiet afternoons soaking up the sun. The blended fabric materials and stainless steel hardware make for an impressively durable design that, even when left outside, holds up well to the elements.

While it is hard to find anything not to love about this hammock, it would be nice if the hammock stand came with the purchase. ENO has a few compatible stands, or if you already have one, check to see if the dimensions match.

The Chair Hammock

Slightly more compact and arguably more comfortable than a traditional hammock, the Yellowleaf chair hammock is a top contender for backyard patios. Its design differs from a conventional hammock but provides a similar lounge experience since you are suspended above the ground.

While you may not be able to lie down fully in a chair hammock, it does offer some benefits for those who prefer an upright position for reading or sipping their morning coffee on their back patio.

The woven fabric is soft and comfortable feel (almost like a cocoon), and the chair is portable enough to bring to nearly any outdoor event. Also, Yellowleaf now offers a portable stand, the Vista, which allows you to take your hammock chair on the go.

Overall, the hammock chair isn’t the same as a hammock you lay in, but some users may prefer a high level of comfort and security.

Traditional Rope Hammock

Woven rope hammocks aren’t for everyone, but on a hot summer day, they are hard to beat for breathability and comfort.

The Castaway Living traditional rope hammock offers excellent value—and it’s often on sale for less than $100. Made from cotton materials, the ropes are prone to stretching, but Castaway Living has accounted for that in the design. The ropes are shorter than than other models, so there’s room to grow.

It often takes a few tries to get situated so the tension of the ropes isn’t isolated to one area. On this specific design, having slightly tighter weaves could be beneficial. The holes are a bit large in some areas, making it awkward to get comfortable at times.

Quilted Fabric Hammock

The Sunnydaze outdoor quilted fabric hammock offers optimal relaxation in any outdoor space. Crafted with durable polyester fabric and a quilted design, this hammock provides comfort, style, and a cozy lounge space for any backyard patio. It safely accommodates two adults, making it perfect for sharing with family or even pets.

One of the standout features of this hammock is its versatility. It comes with a detachable pillow that supports your head and neck, enhancing your overall comfort. We also appreciate the hammock’s spreader bar design for added stability—this bar helps prevent tipping when you’re getting in and out or moving around in the hammock.

Overall, the Sunnydaze hammock offers necessary durability and comfort, paired with soft fabric and sturdy construction at a highly affordable price.

Ridgerunner Hammock

The Warbonnet Ridgerunner hammock is exceptional choice for camping, designed with a spreader bar for lots of comfort and stability. It provides a flat laying surface plus more spacious interior space. There’s also an integrated bug net and storage shelf.

The spreader bar means the hammock a bit heavier and bulkier than other models, but for many campers, the level of comfort is worth the trade-off. Overall, it’s a standout for camping enthusiasts seeking a premium outdoor sleeping solution.

Chameleon Hammock Complete

The Dutchware Chameleon hammock is a game-changer in the world of outdoor gear. Its modular design allows for customization, enabling users to tailor their camping experience to their liking.

For instance, you can change the ridgeline length to accommodate different setups and preferences or add the option of underquilt hooks to secure an underquilt when camping in colder weather. The lightweight fabrics make it great for travel or backpacking and are designed to withstand extended outdoor use. While the design is relatively durable, the lightweight fabrics are prone to damage, so use it with care.

Due to the customizable features, there is a bit of a learning curve when setting up this hammock, especially when testing out new modular options. The versatility of this hammock is unmatched, and it is an excellent investment for anyone who wants a hammock that can do it all.

Double Cotton Hammock with Stand Combo

The Vivere double cotton hammock is 100 percent cotton and ideal for comfortable backyard lounging. Its size and capacity allow for two adults to share it safely.

This particular hammock is an excellent value because it comes with a steel stand. The stand is highly durable, but the set-up can be time-consuming. It isn’t overly complicated, but it may take longer than you anticipate. Once set up, it is easy to move around and adjust. Plus, the stand can be used with other hammocks if you decide to upgrade. It’s also considerably sturdy.

The style is nice and material is comfortable, but it lack optimal weather resistance. You can extend the life of the fabric by using an at-home, non-toxic waterproofing solution like Nikwax.

Hammock FAQs

Common Hammock Sizes

Here are some common size breakdowns for hammocks:

Single Hammocks

Suitable for one person and ideal for solo camping or lounging.

• Width: 4 to 5 ft

• Length: 7 to 9 ft

• Weight Capacity: 250 to 400 lb

Ultralight or backpacking hammocks

For anyone who prioritizes weight, compact design, and portability

• Width: less than 4 to 5 ft

• Length: 7 to 9 ft

• Weight Capacity: 250 to 300 lb

Double hammocks

Feature a higher weight capacity to accommodate up to two adults comfortably.

• Width: 5 to 6.5 ft

• Length: 9 to 10.5 ft

• Weight Capacity: 400 to 600 lb

Family-Sized XL hammocks

Designed for multiple people or small families to use simultaneously.

• Width: 6.5 to 8 ft

• Length: 10 to 13 ft

• Weight Capacity: 500 to 1,000 lb

How to Take Care of Your Hammock

To improve the longevity of your hammock and ensure it remains in excellent condition for years to come, follow these best practices for hammock care.

Cleaning

It’s essential to clean your hammock periodically to remove dirt, debris, and stains. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions, which may involve hand washing with mild detergent and water, spot cleaning, or machine washing on a gentle cycle. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach as they can damage the fabric.

Drying

Make sure your hammock is completely dry. Hang it in a well-ventilated area or use a dryer on a low heat setting to prevent mold, mildew, and musty odors.

Storage

When not in use, store your hammock indoors in a dry, cool area away from direct sunlight and moisture. Prolonged exposure to sunlight and humidity can cause fabric deterioration and fading, even if it is a UV-treated material.

Other Helpful Hammock Tips

Avoid Overloading

Adhere to the manufacturer’s recommended weight capacity and avoid overloading your hammock with excessive weight or multiple users beyond its capacity. Distribute weight evenly to prevent stress on the fabric and suspension system.

Inspect Regularly

Inspect the hammock suspension system regularly, including straps, ropes, carabiners, and hardware, for signs of wear or damage. Replace any worn or damaged components promptly to ensure safety and stability.

Repair Promptly

Address any tears, holes, or fraying in the hammock fabric or suspension system as soon as possible. Use a repair patch or sewing kit to mend minor damage, or consider professional repairs for more extensive issues. Some damage may also be covered under a warranty or company repair policy.

Prevent Tree Damage

When hanging your hammock between trees, use tree straps or protective sleeves to prevent damaging the bark. Avoid wrapping ropes directly around tree trunks, as this can cause abrasion and injury to the trees.

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